Latest news with #sustainabledevelopment
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
VIB provides $62m financing for REE's Duyen Hai wind project in Vietnam
Vietnam International Bank (VIB) has finalised a VND1,640bn ($62.68m) credit facility agreement with Duyen Hai Wind Power Joint Stock Company (JSC) to support the construction of the 48MW Duyen Hai wind power plant in Vinh Long province, Vietnam. Duyen Hai Wind Power JSC is a subsidiary of the Refrigeration Electrical Engineering Corporation (REE). The wind power plant will be situated across the communities of Dong Hai, Long Thanh and Ngu Lac and will commence operations by December 2025. It will supply clean energy to Vietnam's national grid while stimulating local economic development. The project will enhance renewable energy and sustainable development in the Mekong Delta region, which is highly susceptible to climate change impacts. REE deputy CEO Nguyen Ngoc Thai Binh stated: 'We highly value VIB's partnership – a leading financial institution in Vietnam with strong execution capabilities, deep industry insight, and the ability to tailor solutions to the unique nature of each project. 'Along with REE's expansion of its footprint in the renewable energy sector, having a reliable financial partner like VIB is a key factor in realising our strategy to green our energy portfolio in the years ahead.' The Duyen Hai wind power plant is aligned with REE's strategic plan to grow its renewable energy footprint. The company has developed more than 2,800MW of generation capacity, with almost 1,700MW from renewable sources such as wind, solar and hydropower. REE plans to achieve 5GW of total generation capacity by 2035. VIB has played an integral role as lead financier of the project by offering early-stage advisory services on loan structuring and creating a disbursement schedule customised for the renewable venture's unique needs. VIB corporate banking deputy CEO and head Nguyen Xuan Dung stated: 'This collaboration with Duyen Hai Wind Power and REE further demonstrates VIB's commitment to swift execution, practical support, and long-term, responsible partnership with pioneering enterprises like REE – companies that create long-lasting value for society through sustainable development projects.' "VIB provides $62m financing for REE's Duyen Hai wind project in Vietnam" was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Times
12 hours ago
- Business
- Times
London's most sustainable office is block of wood as builders branch out
On the site of an old Costa Coffee roastery in Vauxhall, one of London's most unique office spaces has opened its doors. Paradise SE11 — aptly named, given its location on Old Paradise Street and its deep connection with nature — is the latest in a growing number of timber workspaces across the city proving that net zero carbon buildings can be as beautiful as they are sustainable. This one is arguably the most unusual. Sandwiched between the train tracks at Waterloo station on one side — such is the proximity that when trains stop, it is perfectly feasible to catch a glimpse of passengers' book titles — and a public park and tree canopy on the other, the six-storey, emerald structure is the only space in London where a timber environment in such a dense urban location butts up against green space. It is also the lowest-carbon mass-timber office development in the UK, can be deconstructed and recycled when it reaches the end of its life cycle, and packs a hefty architectural punch. As far as showcases for sustainable development go, it is pretty compelling. That's not to say timber development is without risk. Fear of getting caught up in lengthy, not to mention costly, insurance hurdles due to the potential for fire and water damage remains a deterrent for many developers. However, for a bold few, the benefits of looking beyond more commonly used materials, such as steel and concrete, have prompted a wave of ambitious timber developments across London. Developments, say the teams behind them, that have the power to save the planet and make us happier and healthier. 'Being surrounded by timber, rather than steel or concrete, just feels different,' says Theo Michell, chief operating officer of Bywater Properties, the developer behind the Paradise building. 'It even smells and sounds different.' He's right, it does. The exposed wooden ceilings and vast 800kg timber columns zigzagging around its internal perimeter are, first and foremost, structurally essential. They are also architecturally arresting. And they bring a softness and a sense of calm to the space, both in terms of the aesthetic, brought to life by the architects Feilden Clegg Bradley, and the acoustics. 'Here we are in an unashamedly urban location,' says Michell as another packed train flies past the floor-to-ceiling third-floor windows. 'And yet, all around us, is a natural material that not only reduces carbon, but makes people feel better.' • BlackRock boss wants London growth but can't find office space Indeed, a growing body of evidence suggests that spending time in spaces made from natural materials can lower our blood pressure and heart rate, elevate our mood and reduce cognitive fatigue by 40 per cent. 'Research clearly shows that wooden buildings provide better air quality, reduce stress and increase productivity,' says Annica Anas, chief executive of Atrium Ljungberg, the Swedish developer building Wood City in Stockholm which, at 2.5 million sq ft, will become the largest mass-timber project in the world when it is completed in 2027. While no one is taking a punt on an entirely wooden district in London just yet, projects such as Timber Square, the developer LandSec's 370,000 sq ft net zero mixed-use scheme, designed by Bennetts Associates, are paving the way for increasingly large-scale examples of a timber-led urban realm. It will be completed later this year on Lavington Street in Southwark. • Frescoes reveal Southwark was the 'Beverly Hills of Londinium' 'Timber construction has the potential to transform London into a greener, healthier city, reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and creating spaces that connect people with nature, all while supporting sustainable urban growth,' says Marcus Geddes, LandSec's managing director for the building. 'We know that businesses are also increasingly focused on occupying low-carbon, high-quality office space.' When it comes to the environmental impact, carbon stats are definitive. The Black and White Building, London's tallest mass-timber office in Shoreditch, designed by Waugh Thistleton Architects, which has an entirely wooden structure on concrete foundations, generates 37 per cent less embodied carbon than a concrete building. It equates to a saving in excess of 1,000 tonnes of CO₂. Even hybrid projects, such as Paradise and Timber Square, where wood is used alongside other materials, are infinitely more sustainable than their fully concrete and steel counterparts. Paradise has removed 1,800 tonnes of CO₂ from the atmosphere, the equivalent to the carbon emissions of building 24 homes — a calculation that includes the emissions derived from sourcing and transporting the timber from Austria, which supplies most of Europe. It helps that wooden buildings are quick to build. 'Paradise's timber structure went up in about 20 weeks, all told,' says Michell. 'That was with just seven people on site for the most part; a crane operator and six others bolting the pieces of timber together like a giant Meccano set.' Of course, it's not all plain sailing. 'There is a perception that timber buildings might be uninsurable,' he says. 'In our experience, the process has been complicated and technical, but not insurmountable.' Nor does the plethora of insurance-related hurdles mean timber developments are unsafe. In an office context, insurance issues are not so much based on a concern about the safety of inhabitants, but against the loss of the building. A loss that, contrary to widespread belief, is more likely to occur because of water damage than fire. It is one of many misconceptions and challenges that Michell believes will subside as more timber projects get built. 'Plenty of sceptics thought we were crazy,' he says. 'Now, larger developers are intrigued by what we have done and the best thing would be for them to swing in behind us because, once we build up a pattern of these projects, that sets a precedent and life gets much easier. We never expected to be pioneers.' Standing on the third floor of a former Costa Coffee roastery in one of London's most unique new office buildings, the scent of freshly cut wood in the air, pioneers rather says it all.
Associated Press
17 hours ago
- Business
- Associated Press
THE LAB SD Launches to Redefine Sustainable Urban Development with Adaptive, Biophilic Approach
07/18/2025, San Diego, California // PRODIGY: Feature Story // THE LAB SD - Living Adaptive Build - Sustainable Developments With an urgent need for sustainable housing and a new standard of community-centered design, THE LAB SD (Living Adaptive Build - Sustainable Developments) officially launches. Founded by expert sustainable designer and development strategist Elizabeth Carmichael, the San Diego-based venture is set to reshape how multifamily and mixed-use developments are imagined, built, and experienced. The company was born from the evolution of Carmichael's previous firm, ECOhouse, which focused on custom sustainable architecture for private clients. With THE LAB SD, Carmichael is scaling her vision to offer a comprehensive suite of development services tailored for developers of multifamily and mixed-use properties, projects that impact not just individual homeowners, but entire communities and ecosystems. 'We're not just creating buildings. We're creating living, breathing environments that are good for the occupants, for developers, for the surrounding community, and for the planet,' said Carmichael. 'THE LAB SD is about guiding developers through every stage of creating sustainable, wellness-focused spaces that have a real and lasting impact.' PointView Residences by THE LAB SD THE LAB SD stands apart by treating buildings as adaptive, responsive organisms. Its neuro methodology is rooted in biophilic design, neuroscience-backed wellness strategies, and climate resilience planning, all geared toward enhancing human health and environmental harmony. Carmichael brings together an interdisciplinary team including architects, sustainability experts, and even a neuroscientist to guide clients from concept to post-completion. Key services include, but are not limited to, sustainability integration & performance consulting, land use strategy & entitlement support, construction coordination & technical documentation, and post-occupancy performance monitoring. THE LAB SD has already led projects focusing on multifamily housing, mixed-use developments, and adaptive reuse commercial spaces. The firm is currently preparing to launch its next venture: a club room including a speakeasy within a larger multifamily development. However, its core focus remains on sustainable housing, a response to the critical shortage in Southern California. 'We've seen a huge need in our region, and we're prioritizing projects that provide quality housing without sacrificing sustainability,' said Carmichael. 'We know that healthier buildings lead to healthier people, and ultimately, healthier cities.' While rooted in San Diego, THE LAB SD's vision is broad. The firm is actively pursuing mid- to high-rise developments and is ready to bring in additional experts for large-scale projects. The team supports developers through all phases: from early-stage planning and site intelligence to sustainability benchmarking and resilience planning. Carmichael stated: 'We are dedicated to creating sustainable, innovative, and adaptive environments that seamlessly integrate with nature. Through biophilic design and forward-thinking development strategies, we enhance the living experiences of communities while fostering a deep connection to the natural world. We further envision a future where every development reflects our commitment to sustainable growth, biophilic design, and community resilience.' With over three decades of experience in eco-conscious architecture and development, Carmichael brings deep industry knowledge and passion to THE LAB SD. Having previously led ECOhouse architecture and another firm before that, Carmichael is known for her innovative thinking, collaborative approach, and holistic design ethos. 'This is my third venture, and the one that brings everything together: environmental responsibility, human well-being, and scalable development strategy,' said Carmichael. THE LAB SD is currently expanding its portfolio and seeking partnerships with developers who share its vision. Whether it's transforming urban infill into wellness-enhancing communities or reimagining how commercial spaces support ecosystems, the firm is positioned to lead a movement toward buildings that heal, uplift, and endure. Media Contact Name: Elizabeth Carmichael Email: [email protected] Source published by Submit Press Release >> THE LAB SD Launches to Redefine Sustainable Urban Development with Adaptive, Biophilic Approach
Yahoo
20 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SAHAM BANK Secures €55 Million From EBRD to Boost Green Finance in Morocco
CASABLANCA, Morocco, July 18, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SAHAM BANK has reaffirmed its commitment to green finance through a strategic partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), under the newly launched Green Economy Financing Facility Plus (GEFF Plus). Supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the European Union (EU), and the Government of Canada (through the HIPCA fund), the initiative will mobilize €55 million in funding for SAHAM BANK. This financing will be channeled into two dedicated credit lines aimed at accelerating the green transition of Morocco's private sector. In addition to financial support, the partnership includes technical assistance funded by the EU and GCF, as part of Morocco's Decarbonisation and Climate Resilience Programme. This support will help strengthen SAHAM BANK's internal capabilities in green finance and develop banking products aligned with environmental challenges. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in SAHAM BANK's sustainable development strategy. It underscores the bank's long-term vision to foster a responsible banking model, focused on green growth and sustainable value creation for the Moroccan economy. This operation illustrates the transformation dynamic initiated by the bank following its change of ownership. Its trajectory is guided by the vision of SAHAM GROUP, chaired by Moulay Hafid Elalamy, who is also Chairman of the supervisory Board of SAHAM BANK. A prominent Moroccan economic player, combining strong local roots with an international outlook, SAHAM GROUP currently operates in high-potential sectors such as finance, customer experience, education, agriculture, and real estate. About Saham Bank Founded in 1913, Saham Bank — formerly Société Générale Marocaine de Banques (SGMB) — is one of Morocco's oldest and most respected banking institutions. Over the past century, it has played a central role in the country's economic development. Saham Bank serves a diverse clientele, including individuals, professionals, and businesses, offering a comprehensive range of financial products and services tailored to their needs. The bank remains committed to innovation, service quality, and sustainable development, while continuing to strengthen its position as a key player in the Moroccan banking sector. Source: AETOSWire View source version on Contacts Zohra MabchourSaham Bank+212522438462 / + Sign in to access your portfolio
Arab News
21 hours ago
- Politics
- Arab News
Human Rights Commission, King Khalid Foundation sign cooperation agreement
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Human Rights Commission and the King Khalid Foundation struck a strategic partnership through a cooperation agreement signed in Riyadh on Thursday, marking a significant step toward advancing human rights protection in the Kingdom. The agreement was signed by Hala Al-Tuwaijri, president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, and Princess Nouf bint Mohammed bin Abdullah, CEO of the King Khalid Foundation, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The partnership is designed to strengthen coordination between the two organizations while making the most of their combined expertise to promote human rights initiatives throughout Saudi Arabia. Under the terms of the agreement, the organizations will collaborate on joint research projects focusing on human rights issues, launch public awareness campaigns to foster a culture of human rights understanding, and develop community-based initiatives that align with their shared mission. The partnership also aims to highlight Saudi Arabia's growing commitment to human rights and sustainable development on both the domestic and international stages. The partnership comes as Saudi Arabia continues to prioritize human rights advancement through legislative reforms, public education programs, and enhanced community engagement. The Kingdom has been actively working to elevate the profile of its civil society organizations and their contributions to human rights progress through joint community initiatives and collaborative projects.
